Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis (also known as Policeman's Heel)?

A condition that is no longer restricted to just policemen, plantar fasciitis is one of the most common (and often most painful) issues that people experience with their feet. The traditional name comes from when policemen used to patrol neighbourhoods on foot, causing the heel pain.

With so many people are on their feet for much of the day, plantar fasciitis is much more common. Most cases report a sharp pain in the heel of the affected foot, which is often worse first thing in the morning or after extended periods of sitting or resting.

The pain comes from inflammation to your plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue which runs along the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone with your toes. This inflammation is caused by strain to the plantar fascia and can arise from several factors:

  • Injury or trauma to the foot (which can cause one or more small tears to the plantar fascia)
  • Repetitive weight bearing activity (i.e. walking for long periods, high impact sports, standing a lot at work)
  • Wearing poorly fitting footwear without adequate cushioning or support

Are you looking for specific information on plantar fasciitis pain relief? By following these tips and seeking the correct help, you can successfully treat plantar fasciitis and reduce the pain and discomfort you may be experiencing:

  • VISIT A PODIATRIST: Your foot health professional will be able to recommend stretching and strengthening exercises which can help alleviate the pain and facilitate a quicker recovery – book here
  • APPLY COLD PACKS: Ice packs and cold compresses are a keep method of plantar fasciitis pain relief. As with many injuries, the cold temperature and compression can help bring down the swelling and inflammation in the foot, and in turn reduce the pain
  • GET THE RIGHT SUPPORT: Ask your Podiatrist for advice on the best footwear to choose for cushioning and support, or alternatively read our Healthy Footwear Guide and our Guide to Insoles that can help relieve Plantar Fasciitis 
  • TRY OS1ST SPECIALIST SOCKS: As an alternative to buying new footwear you could try our Plantar Fasciitis socks, which are especially designed to aid and prevent plantar fasciitis, giving you optimum support throughout the day. Buy yours here
  • LOOK AFTER YOUR ARCHES: Pop into one of our stores for a free foot assessment. Investing in insoles for plantar fasciitis can help provide better support and, by cushioning your feet with the correct orthotics for plantar fasciitis, you can reduce stress on the affected area – click here for more information

 

Foot pain: Plantar Fasciitis